Since my childhood in northern Michigan I’ve bounced back and forth from West Coast to East, passing right over my home state and missing it all the while. I try to visit at least four times a year, but sometimes nothing can quell the homesickness, especially around the holidays. Between Prentiss’ after school activities and Meredith’s play groups a spontaneous trip to the heartland isn’t so doable right now. So I’ve decided to bring a little of my hometown to me! In Petoskey, Michigan, where I grew up, there’s a place called American Spoon that makes “spoon preserves,” so thick with real fruit that they’re easier to spread with a spoon than a knife. This week I’m going to make some simple rolls dressed up with their delicious pumpkin butter, which will — partially, anyway — satisfy my hunger for home.

So that’s my prescription if you’re feeling nostalgic and far away from home this time of year: Whip up some childhood flavors for your table, whether it’s a Georgia peach pie or pastry flavored with Vermont maple.

Isn’t food always the best way to fight homesickness? What are some of your hometown faves?